Item Description:
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Amd 1 to Work Order PR00006042 with the U of M to have MnTAP continue performing outreach and assistance to preschools, K-12 schools, and higher education institutions, extending period to 04/30/28, new NTE $301,270
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Resolution:
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BE IT RESOLVED, that the County Administrator be authorized to negotiate Amendment 1 to Work Order PR00006042 with the Regents of the University of Minnesota to have Minnesota Technical Assistance Program perform outreach and assistance to schools, extending the period to April 30, 2028, for an additional $247,000 with a new not to exceed amount of $301,270; that following review and approval by the County Attorney’s Office, the Chair of the Board be authorized to sign the agreement on behalf of the county; and that the Controller be authorized to disperse funds as directed.
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Background:
History: School recycling programs teach students lifelong habits, develop a culture of sustainability, and align with the county’s plan to reinvent the solid waste system for future generations. It is estimated that recyclables and organic materials, such as food waste and compostable papers, make up nearly 80% of waste generated at schools within Hennepin County.
Waste Reduction and Recycling staff have worked with schools for many years and recently sought to expand those efforts by contracting with an organization to help improve school recycling by conducting waste audits, developing customized strategies, and offering hands-on support to ensure lasting program success.
In 2024, the county contracted with the Minnesota Technical Assistance Program (MnTAP) through the Hennepin-University Partnership to reach out to pre-K to post-secondary public, private, and charter schools and districts in Hennepin County. MnTAP is an outreach program at the University of Minnesota that has a long history helping Minnesota businesses prevent waste and increase diversion, reduce energy use, and prevent pollution.
MnTAP has helped the county identify schools that need assistance, develop outreach plans, and provide technical assistance and consultation to schools to enhance waste prevention, recycling, and organic waste management programs. MnTAP’s outreach has primarily been targeted to schools with at least 50% of students qualifying for free/reduced lunch.
MnTAP also promotes the county’s school waste reduction and recycling grants and helps schools complete applications and implement grant projects. The county’s grants provide an incentive to implement projects that reduce, reuse, recycle or compost waste. School waste reduction and recycling grants are available to preschools, K-12 schools, colleges and universities.
Under this amendment, Minnesota Technical Assistance Program will help a minimum of 20 new schools each year, while continuing to support schools that they have worked with in the past.
Current Request: This request seeks authorization for Amendment 1 to Work Order PR00006042 with the Regents of the University of Minnesota to have Minnesota Technical Assistance Program continue performing outreach and assistance to preschools, K-12 schools, and higher education institutions. This Work Order is through the Hennepin-University Partnership, extending the period to April 30, 2028, for an additional $247,000.
Impact/Outcomes: Reducing waste, improving recycling and expanding organics programs at schools helps meet the county’s zero-waste and climate goals. It is important to have robust recycling programs at education institutions, from our youngest learners to college students. There are also plenty of opportunities to connect recycling to math, science, and social studies curriculum. Introducing youth to waste prevention, recycling and organics recycling can encourage them to take the behavior home and continue the practice throughout their lives.
recommendation
Recommendation from County Administrator: Recommend Approval